Role transition of parental support in adolescents with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and the impact on metabolic control

Abstract:

The transition of diabetes care from dependent- to self-care is a challenge for parents and adolescents. Poor transition of care may lead to poor management of diabetes, poor glycemic control, and may have life threatening results; therefore, it is imperative for parents and adolescents to work together for positive outcomes and effective disease management. The purposes of this comparative descriptive study are to describe perceptions of the division of diabetes self- and dependent-care responsibility among young adolescents and parents and to examine the relationship of perceptions to metabolic control of diabetes. The theoretical framework of this study is based Dorothea Orem’s model of Self-Care. The sample will consist of 60 adolescents with IDDM and their parents from 3 Midwestern diabetes clinics. The Diabetes Family Responsibility Questionnaire will be used to determine the level of responsibility of parents and adolescents in diabetes care. Metabolic Control will be assessed by comparing Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) at two intervals two months apart. Results will provide information for improving the transition of diabetes care from parents to adolescents.